ARMONK, N.Y. – As Con Edison brought in replacement workers to fill in for their employees who were locked out, they also hired some backup to protect them, the North Castle Police Department.

During the past week, a patrol car from the department was on duty near the La Quinta Inn on Business Park Drive where the replacement workers from Alabama are staying. Lt. Jeff Harisch said the officer was there for protection.

“There were some picketers from Con Ed out there on Tuesday morning,” Harisch said. “The officer is there just to keep the peace and to make sure that no one does anything stupid.”

Harisch said the officer on duty is being paid for by Con Edison, who will reimburse the town for the time served. An officer is on duty outside the hotel from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Harisch added the picketers have not returned since Tuesday.

With heavy storms predicted to hit the area Thursday night and it being reported that a deal between Con Ed and union officials was reached, Harisch said he hopes workers can return to help out in the case of a blackout.